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Fuel, groceries, school fees: almost everything seems to cost more than it did a year ago. For many people, that leaves less room to save, and even less confidence about what to do with the savings they have.
In October’s Wealth Wednesday on Ocean 89, Jason Chlup, AVP, Investment Advisor, and Anna McLeod, Associate Portfolio Manager, talked through what is moving markets, why inflation matters for your money and how to take the first step towards investing.
What has been moving markets this year (listen from 02:18)
Anna gave a short update on global markets. Two themes have stood out in 2026: artificial intelligence, as companies use it to improve efficiency and productivity, and the industrial companies building the data centres behind it. Higher oil prices have also pushed up energy costs, which many listeners will have noticed at the pump.
Why $100 buys less than it used to (listen from 03:58)
Inflation is the rising cost of goods and services over time. When oil prices rise, the effect spreads to the price of almost everything else. As Jason put it, $100 ten years ago filled a much bigger shopping basket than $100 does today.
Governments and central banks try to slow inflation by raising interest rates, which makes borrowing more expensive and tends to cool spending. Anna noted that, with inflation rising again, expectations in the US have shifted from rate cuts earlier in the year towards possible rate rises (listen from 11:28).
Why money sitting still can lose value (listen from 07:10)
Cash that is not growing can quietly lose value, because each year it buys a little less. For long-term goals, such as school or college fees, investing gives your money the chance to grow faster than the rate of inflation over time. Returns are not guaranteed, which is why the right plan depends on your goals and your timeline.
Understanding risk (listen from 08:44)
Asked whether higher-risk investing is more profitable, Jason’s answer was honest: it can be, but there are no guarantees. Higher-risk investments tend to rise and fall more, and outcomes also depend on what you invest in and how it is managed. The aim is to understand your options, decide what you are comfortable with, and make an informed decision with professional advice.
Your advisor, backed by a team (listen from 09:37)
Every LOM client works with a named advisor. Behind that advisor is an asset management team, including portfolio managers like Anna, who research companies and markets and look ahead to what may come in the next few years, not just today.
How to get started (listen from 10:19)
Personal investment advice at LOM starts from $25,000. Fixed mandate accounts start from $250,000, and fully discretionary management from $1,000,000, where the investment team manages the portfolio day to day within the goals and limits you agree.
If you are not there yet, Jason’s advice was simple: start by saving (listen from 13:40). Set money aside regularly, cut back where you can, and consider putting windfalls such as a work bonus to good use. Once you reach your first investment, the habit you have built makes it easier to keep adding over time.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you are thinking about investing, or want to better understand which approach may suit your goals, speak with an advisor to explore the options available to you.
The information contained in this article is for information purposes only, and represent the views of the author. It is not intended as specific investment or financial advice, or a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any security. Any investments or strategies listed in this article may not be suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future performance, and as with any investment, prices may fluctuate. It is recommended that advice is sought from a qualified investment professional prior to implementing any financial plan. LOM has made every effort to ensure that the contents herein have been compiled from sources believed reliable, however LOM does not warrant the accuracy, adequacy, timeliness, or completeness of this information expressly disclaims liability for errors or omissions in this information.
